NASA needs engineers who like to cook… on Mars

NASA is seeking cooks for a four-month simulated experiment about cooking and nutrition on the surface of Mars. Because let’s face it: From the look of things, there don’t seem to be many fine dining options.

The simulation takes place on a Hawaiian lava flow, and participants must wear spacesuits while they prepare food from space-appropriate packaged supplies. Researchers are trying to discover how palatable the food is, how long astronauts can eat different options before they exhibit fatigue, how much time preparation and clean-up will take, and whether participants experience smell and taste consistently over four months in an isolated environment.

A “willingness and ability to eat a wide range of foods” is listed as a qualification.

Sound like it’s up your alley? If you also have a degree in engineering, biological or physical sciences, mathematics or computer science — other tasks unrelated to food preparation will also be required — you should apply before February 29.

The study is a joint project by Cornell University and the University of Hawaii.